The Buddy ProgramSWSA would like to congratulate all incoming students as well as those of us who have made it through another year of the program! Being students ourselves, we understand the stress and uncertainty that can come with entering a new program. This is why we developed the SWSA Buddy Program. The goal of this program is to assist incoming students by providing them with someone who has been through the same experience and provide them guidance as well as words of encouragement.
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Interested incoming students will each be assigned a buddy, either a second or third year student, that they can contact via text, email or in person to ask questions regarding classes, professors and other aspects of the MSW program. It gives current students the opportunity to give back to the CSUSB community, help strengthen our program and inspire companionship. The time spent with your buddy can also be used for community service hours.
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What Kinds of Things Can Buddies Do Together?
- Study Hour: Even though one of you is a Foundation year and the other is an Advanced year, your need to read materials are the same! Studying together for a few hours each week can help keep you both on top of your assigned readings.
- Applications: Try role-playing what you learn in internship and concepts from class! Depending on your placements, you and your partner may be interested in role-playing concepts like informed consent, risk assessment, or case conceptualizations. It can help to reduce the anxiety around practicing a new skill in front of others and an opportunity to receive constructive feedback.
- Exercise: Being enrolled in the MSW program means we all have free use of and access to a gym. Since exercise has been shown to decrease stress, try spending an hour before class or after class going to the gym. By inviting your buddy, you hold yourself accountable to implementing a change that will benefit you in the long run.
SWSA would love to hear from you! We want the Buddy Program to enrich your experience here. If you and your buddy have found something that promotes success and support, please share with us so other Buddies may benefit!